Alumni Spotlight Archive

Vitals:I graduated with a B.S. in Vocational Education and a M.S. in Industrial Technology, both from Illinois State University. I’ve held various positions from vocational educator, technical sales manager, director of process management, COO, owner and consultant. I’m currently working in the alternative energy and electric vehicle industry, where I’ve been for the last seven years.

Accolades:I was awarded Technical Sales Representative of the Year and Technical Sales Manager of the Year by Enco Printing Products. I’ve also received the Graphic Communication Association’s Norm Scharp Idea Award, and was inducted into the Ben Franklin Society.

What would you describe as your strong suit?Never giving up.

What have been some obstacles you've had to overcome in pursuit of your educational and career goals?Obstacles I’ve faced, like so many others, have been money and time.

What has served as a source of inspiration both in your career and in your life?Besides my father, who made sure we were always provided for no matter what, I had a family friend – an uncle-type – who taught me the world of business. And then I also had a godfather who taught me to work with my hands, and Ben Franklin is an inspiration to me because of his connection to printing, business, politics and inventions.

How has Triton College impacted your life?High school never really interested me much. It wasn’t until I went to Triton did I excel in school. It gave me a purpose and direction, which put me on the president’s list my first year there. During my tenure in the printing and publishing industry, I continued to support my old program by teaching there part-time for a while and donating materials and equipment to the program.

What advice would you give to someone who would like to pursue a career in your field?In my current position as CEO of Plug-In Vehicle Solutions, the person should learn about transportation deployment, electrical basics, business and sales methodologies and the basics of Electric Vehicle components. They can read a white paper at www.getplugging.com as a starting point. Last but not least, they should read a book called “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” (by Robert T. Kiyosaki) to help give them the fundamentals of managing their money.

What do you like to do in your spare time?I run a new not-for-profit called Electric Vehicle Deployment Alliance. I also co-chair a printing industry educational group called BRIDG’s and I’m a real estate investor. I also do historical re-enacting with my wife and children. Then, there is no free time left.

What are your plans for the future?To be a guiding force in deployment of electric vehicles on a nationwide basis, get all my children through college and enjoy my wife’s company.